Top-rated arborists.

Get matched with top arborists in Ripley, NY

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your arboricultural service project in Ripley, NY?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

TRUSTED BY RIPLEY, NY HOMEOWNERS

  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.2
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon42
    Verified arboricultural services reviews

Find Arborists in Ripley

Avatar for O'Connor  Landscaping
O'Connor Landscaping
5.0(
10
)
Tree RemovalTree Trimming

Serving Ripley, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Great to work with. Shawn has great ideas for drainage issues in areas that need it. Iv had a water build up issue for years in the corner of my house. Shawn came up with a great idea and itâ s working well. Well worth the money. He even touched up the area with mulch and stone to match my porches. I couldnâ t be more happy with the look.. I highly recommend Shawn Oâ Conners work."
Response time2 days
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for Zekes Roofing & Home Services
Zekes Roofing & Home Services
4.2(
17
)
Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Trimming+1 more

Serving Ripley, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The 2 young men who came were polite, pleasant, hard-working and very capable. They installed a complicated bird feeder into the ground, moved a heavy potted fig tree into my garage and winterized 2 hoses. I would hire them again."
Metal
Metal over wood and shingles
Metal over shingles
Tear off
Tear off

+11

Response time6 days
Recommended by70%of homeowners
Showing 1-10 of 27
Arborists questions, answered by experts

Completely topping a plum tree is a risky business. Cut too much, and you’ll kill your tree. That said, you do need to trim the top of your tree to encourage bushy growth, maintain your tree’s vase shape, and limit size. 

A plum tree's central leader (or trunk) should never extend more than 3 feet above the highest branch. When you first plant your tree, cut the central leader so it’s 2 to 3 feet tall. As it grows, cut it back 12 to 20 inches until it reaches its desired height. Never prune more than one-third of the new growth.

Pruning trees during the summer can be a bad idea because the new growth will take place during the hottest months of the year, which can stress your tree out. Similarly, pruning during the early fall can be a bad idea, too, because you’d be stimulating new growth when most trees are aiming to go dormant. 

Pruning recommendations will vary by the type of tree, but generally, waiting until winter to prune your trees is a good idea.

Trees should be pruned every two to five years, depending on its age and type. Young trees should be inspected and pruned every two to three years. Mature trees should be inspected and trimmed every three to five years, and fruit trees should be pruned annually with a careful eye on seasonal growth. Evergreens typically don’t need pruning, unless branches or limbs are damaged, diseased, or harboring pests.

Generally, homeowners do not need permission to cut down a tree on their own private property, but there are several exceptions where a permit may be required. You might need a permit if the tree is particularly large, old, or a protected species, such as a heritage tree. Trees located near public property or power lines can also be subject to special rules. Additionally, many local governments and homeowners associations (HOAs) have regulations controlling which trees can be removed to manage an area's appearance or prevent the spread of invasive species. To avoid hefty fines, it is crucial to check with your local government and HOA to determine if a permit is needed before you begin.

A pro can guide you on the alternatives to tree topping depending on the specific issues within your trees. For example, if you’re dealing with breakage and cracks in your tree, they may suggest canopy reduction, which removes less than 25% of the tree’s limbs. If you’re dealing with lesser damage, some intentional pruning may be all you need. If you’re looking to get a clearer view through your tree, the pro may also try windowing or skirting your tree.

The Ripley, NY homeowners’ guide to arboricultural services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.